What's On: Juno and the Paycock

A corner of Formby is transforming into 1920’s Dublin. John Sharp, who played the lead role in Formby Little Theatre’s last production, is now directing Sean O’Casey’s play Juno and the Paycock for the company, and has his cast of 12 actors listening to a Dialect CD to learn to make it sound as authentic as the dialogue O’Casey wrote.

Promotional poster for Juno and the Paycock

The play tells the story of the irrepressible Captain Jack Boyle (Tony Burke) and his butty Joxer Daly (Stewart Brignull), a pair of colourful characters determined not to get trapped into working, while Boyle’s wife Juno (Pam Foy) struggles to keep their troubled family together.

Their story is set against the events of the Irish Civil War, which divided neighbour from neighbour, even in the same tenement, and put their son Johnny (new member Matthew Swinnerton) in fear for his life.

There is a lot of dark comedy with the two reprobates, but pathos too. The story turns on the news of an inheritance that could lift them all out of their troubles; or will tragedy ensue regardless?

Tony Burke and Stewart Brignull rehearsing for Juno and the Paycock

Catch Juno and the Paycock at Formby Little Theatre from April 5-9 then April 12-16, and makes good use of the latest investment in its updated technical equipment to help bring this challenging story to life. Tickets now on sale from 01704 875 821.